Africa-Press – Eswatini. Young people in Shiselweni now have a new pathway to opportunity following the official launch of the Eswatini National Youth Council Business Incubation and Innovation Hub in Nhlangano on 27 March 2026. The initiative designed to equip them with skills, mentorship, and resources to turn ideas into sustainable livelihoods.
Officially opening the facility, Minister of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs Bongani Nzima described the initiative as a strategic investment in young people. “Today marks the official launch of the Eswatini National Youth Council Innovation Hub, a facility that embodies government’s commitment to investing strategically in young people as drivers of innovation, entrepreneurship, and national development,” he said.
The iHub will provide access to training in digital literacy, entrepreneurship, and life skills, alongside business incubation and civic development services. It is designed to support young people in turning ideas into practical outcomes, including starting and growing businesses.
Highlighting its impact, Nzima said: “The Hub will empower young people in Shiselweni and surrounding areas to translate their ideas into businesses, acquire market relevant skills, and become active participants in the economy.” He added that the facility would help strengthen the capacity of youth to create sustainable livelihoods and contribute to regional economic growth.
The initiative is supported through partnerships aimed at improving both skills and access to finance. Collaboration with SEDCO will provide entrepreneurship training, business plan development, and coaching, while the Youth Enterprise Revolving Fund will support eligible beneficiaries with loans and mentorship.
SEDCO Chief Executive Officer Khethiwe Mhlanga emphasized the importance of preparing youth for a changing economy. “It is vital for us at SEDCO to train the youth on entrepreneurship and e commerce for exporting and market linkage. We are not limited in the country to just exporting products, but services as well,” she said. She added that young people must take advantage of digital platforms to innovate and grow their businesses.
Nzima also acknowledged the contribution of partners such as Junior Achievement Eswatini and UNICEF in supporting previous programmes that laid the foundation for the hub.
The Minister said government intends to expand similar initiatives across the country. “We no longer want to treat this as a project, but as an ongoing programme that will be available for young emaSwati as long as it remains relevant to their needs,” he said.
Encouraging young people to make use of the facility, Nzima said: “This Hub is your platform, take initiative, seize the opportunities, and transform your potential into impact.”
